Darryl Richard, Rosalind R. Thomas, Alvin Richard Jr,
Cathy R. Brice, Norwood Richard, Dwight Richard
Sylvia and Alvin Richard Jr
Wanda Martin, Verlie Mae LeBeaux,
Alvin Richard Jr, Christella R. Mercadel
Simone Richard Braud, Alvin Richard Jr, Alvin Richard III
The weather
was picture
perfect for what
could mimic
an evening
stroll in the old
neighborhood.
Alvin Richard,
Jr. wanted to
celebrate his
birthday and his
Aunt Christella
R. Mercadel (95
years old) with a
7th Ward Birthday Party. He wanted an evening to enjoy his
friends and neighbors from back in the day.
The tables were adorned with street signs that symbolized
a trip down memory lane: Pauger, Touro, Duels, St Anthony,
N. Galvez, and N. Rocheblave. Additional table signs listed
familiar locations, some of which no longer exist: Epiphany
Church, Valena C. Jones School, Thompson’s Sweet Shop,
Nite Cap Lounge, and Barard’s Bar. Guests were allowed to
find streets or locations that best fit their memories.
Lebron”LBJ” Joseph was the Master of Ceremonies,
announcing the featured acts of Michael “Soul Man”
Baptiste, and the Mystics, whose medley of songs brought
back many fond remembrances.
The Menu included a Po’Boy Station where everyone
could make their own classic New Orleans sandwiches of hot
roast beef, or fried oysters, shrimp, and fish, or even go for a
seafood platter! There was also creole gumbo, potato salad,
baked chicken and fresh green beans.
The evening concluded with the sounds of Treme’ from the
trumpet of James ”Twelve” Andrews, the New Orleans Baby
Doll Ladies, and the Zulu Tramps.
Down Home
7th Ward
Birthday Party
Alvin Richard Jr
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BIONCA FLOT SYKES
14 | BREAKTHRU MEDIA | breakthrumediamagazine.com JANUARY / F E B R UARY 2 0 1 8
